SS-31 Peptide (Elamipretide)

SS-31 (elamipretide, also referenced in trials as Bendavia) is a 4-amino-acid mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide developed by Hazel Szeto and Peter Schiller. Its cationic-aromatic alternating motif binds cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane, with documented effects on electron transport chain efficiency, ATP production, and reactive oxygen species generation. Unlike most peptides, SS-31 concentrates selectively in mitochondria without requiring membrane potential.

Research has spanned ischemia-reperfusion injury models, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, age-related sarcopenia, and primary mitochondrial myopathy, where SS-31 has progressed to Phase 3 clinical investigation. RetaLABS stocks research-grade SS-31 in 10mg and 50mg vials.

For mechanistic detail and research data, see the SS-31 Research Guide. For reconstitution protocols, see the Peptide Reconstitution Guide.